Google, Novartis Partner on Smart Contact Lens

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Google has partnered with Novartis to create smart contact lenses complete with microchips to manage diabetes and other health conditions.

Google will be using the Novartis eye care division Alcon to create the lenses that will have "non-invasive sensors, microchips and other miniaturized electronics," according to Engadget. Primarily the smart contacts will keep diabetics aware of glucose levels by measuring tears as well as correcting vision. Google will handle the electronics, microchips and manufacturing, but Alcon will add the medical expertise.

"Our dream is to use the latest technology in the miniaturization of electronics to help improve the quality of life for millions of people," Google co-founder Sergey Brin said in a statement. "We are very excited to work with Novartis to make this dream come true."

Previously Google mentioned working on a smart contact lens, and apparently Google X has been hard at work to make it happen. Despite recent health monitoring software from Apple and others, Google has been working on the project for several years.